Aflac Q3 2020 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
Aflac Incorporated reported a strong third quarter with total revenues of $5.7 billion and net earnings of $2.5 billion, significantly impacted by a $1.4 billion tax benefit. Adjusted earnings were $994 million, reflecting a 15.2% increase driven by favorable effective tax rates.
Total revenues increased to $5.7 billion compared to $5.5 billion in the third quarter of 2019.
Net earnings rose to $2.5 billion, or $3.44 per diluted share, compared to $777 million, or $1.04 per diluted share a year ago, benefiting from new tax regulations.
Adjusted earnings increased by 15.2% to $994 million, driven primarily by favorable effective tax rates.
Aflac Japan's net premium income decreased by 2.3% to $3.2 billion, while Aflac U.S. net premium income declined by 2.6% to $1.4 billion.
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Aflac Revenue by Segment
Forward Guidance
Aflac anticipates COVID-19 will continue to impact sales results in the United States and Japan. The company expects a modest sales improvement for the remainder of the year, contingent upon the pace of economic recovery.
Positive Outlook
- Aflac is taking actions to navigate the pandemic in Japan and the U.S.
- The company is implementing a tactical approach to product development.
- Aflac is investing in distribution platforms.
- The company is promoting wellness benefits with policyholders in the U.S.
- Aflac is accelerating investment in automation and digital roadmaps.
Challenges Ahead
- The environment created by COVID-19 continues to impact sales results both in the United States and Japan.
- Economic conditions and claims activity within this environment remain uncertain in both the Japan and the U.S. as both countries address the pandemic.
- Aflac expects COVID-19 to significantly affect full year sales results in both countries.
- The voluntary separation plan will result in a one-time expense of approximately $45 million in the fourth quarter.
- Activities represent short-term headwinds to pretax profit margins.